3 Fun Ways to Top Off Your Pies

By Alison Kent

Looking to add that final visual touch to your pies? Discover how to give your recipes a beautiful decorative top.

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1. Criss-Cross

Use crimped pastry wheel to cut dough into 6 strips, ½ inch (1 cm) thick and about 4 inches (10 cm) long. Place 3 of the strips, running in same direction, on work surface, leaving a scant quarter inch (0.6 cm) between each. Weave remaining strips under and over these; transfer to pie top. Trim overhang.

Illustration: Pierre Loranger

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2. The Caterpillar

Cut out tiny pastry rounds and lay on top of pie, overlapping slightly, in a circular shape starting at the outer edge and finishing up in the centre. Brush egg wash between pastry pieces as glue.

Illustration: Pierre Loranger

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3. The Monogram

Create monograms by rolling extra dough into long, slender ropes. Shape into first initial of diners’ names and trim ends; affix to top crust with egg wash.